"Madam, do you want to inform the master...?" Lin Lang asked.
"No, don't tell him." Xia Yan's fingers gradually tightened, a flash of hatred flickering in her eyes. "He must never know." In the past, it wouldn’t have mattered—back then, Jiang Chao was clever and Jiang Quan's pride. With Jiang Chao around, Jiang Quan wouldn’t have spared a glance for Jiang Xinzhi. Even if Jiang Xinzhi became a deputy general, for Jiang Chao’s sake, Jiang Quan would have turned a blind eye or even secretly aided him. But now, Jiang Chao had become the laughingstock of the entire capital, and colleagues often mocked Jiang Quan over it. Jiang Quan had likely grown disgusted with Jiang Chao. With Jiang Xinzhi returning to the capital in such glory, Jiang Quan might start making other plans.
If that happened, it would be disastrous. Xia Yan clenched her skirt tightly.
"Then... Madam, should we ask the Marquis for help? Would he be willing?" Lin Lang asked. A few days ago, Jiang Susu had provoked Xia Cheng into a rage, and Yu Ya was practically ready to fight her over Xia Jun’s matter. Xia Yan and her daughter were already deeply unwelcome in the Xia Family—why would they lift a finger to help?
"My second sister-in-law certainly won’t help, but Father will." Xia Yan said. "Even if it’s just for the sake of the Xia Family, Father will spare no effort to assist me." The Jiang Family was still somewhat of an asset. No matter how displeased Xia Cheng was with Jiang Susu, he wouldn’t let an outsider seize control of the Jiang Family over such trivial conflicts. If Jiang Xinzhi truly rose to prominence in the capital, it would pose a great threat to Jiang Chao. An uncontrollable Jiang Family would be useless—to ensure the Jiang Family remained firmly aligned with the Xia Family, Xia Cheng wouldn’t stand idly by. In the matter of eliminating Jiang Xinzhi, he might even be more zealous than they were.
"Fetch me paper and ink. I need to write to Father," Xia Yan said.
A faint smile curled her lips. The Xia Family would help. Moreover, there was still the Li Family. Though she didn’t know why the Li Family’s second young master, Li An, had been showing frequent goodwill toward her and Jiang Susu lately, she could still make use of it once.
With the Xia and Li Families working together, even if Jiang Xinzhi had nine lives, he wouldn’t escape this time.
......
The spring rain drizzled endlessly, yet the season in the Da Jin Dynasty brought no vitality—instead, it was shrouded in a heavy gloom. Fortunately, the city’s porridge distribution never ceased, and some kind-hearted wealthy merchants had joined the effort to donate grain. The capital’s City Garrison had doubled in size, and the number of rioting refugees had dwindled. Aside from life still being difficult, everything else was no different from before the floods.
The common people, struggling to eat their fill and stay warm, paid even less attention to major events in the imperial court. Even so, General Guan’s triumphant return had become the hottest topic in every corner of the capital. The valiant army led by Guan Lianghan would arrive in the capital tonight.
The Guan Lianghan the people spoke of was currently in the East Wind Pavilion, happily drinking the newly brewed "Guan Mountain Clear Snow." Beside him, Mo Cong remarked, "Second Brother, the entire capital knows you’re returning today. Aren’t you going to put on a show?"
"Hypocritical nonsense," Guan Lianghan scoffed. "I’ve been back in the capital for days. What’s the point of pretending? Besides, it’s already evening—who’d even notice? Just unnecessary trouble."
Mo Cong shrugged. "The rain is so heavy. I wonder where they are now and whether they’ll make it back to the capital on time.""Don't worry." Guan Lianghan wiped his mouth. "My men aren't pushovers. No matter how heavy the rain, it's no problem. They should have reached Blackwood Path by now."
Blackwood Path wasn't an official road—the main road had been destroyed by floodwaters days earlier, making it impassable for horses. Blackwood Path connected to vast stretches of ebony forests, stretching for miles with complex terrain, dense shrubs, and a high risk of getting lost. Wild beasts also roamed the woods. But with an entire military unit present, there was nothing to fear. Guan Lianghan tilted his head back to gulp down more wine, mumbling, "Just wait patiently."
...
At the Jiang residence, Jiang Ruan sat by the window, staring blankly at the rain. For some reason, she had felt restless since early morning. Though she tried to suppress it, her mind remained unsettled.
Lianqiao hurried in and said, "Miss, I saw an unfamiliar old woman enter Delicate Splendor Courtyard. She came out looking very pleased, and the people inside seemed in high spirits."
Jiang Ruan's eyelids twitched. "Are you certain?"
Lianqiao nodded. Jiang Ruan said, "I need to leave immediately. Zisu, Lianqiao, come with me. Luzhu, stay here. If anyone asks, say I went out with Miss Wen to pick out jewelry."
Lianqiao nodded. "Be careful, Miss."
Xia Yan had been preoccupied with her own affairs these past few days and paid little attention to Jiang Ruan, perhaps believing she posed no threat. Once Jiang Xin Zhi was dead, Jiang Ruan would be even less of a concern, so Xia Yan treated her with leniency. Jiang Ruan had also grown closer to Dong Yinger and others, making it convenient to use such excuses to go out.
The three of them left the residence, with Zisu securing an outside carriage. They headed straight for the General's Residence. As soon as they arrived, they saw Zhao Yi and Zhao Yuanfeng leading a group of guards, about to depart. Spotting Jiang Ruan, Zhao Yuanfeng was momentarily taken aback before speaking. "Our informant in the Xia family sent word—the Xia family went to Blackwood Path early this morning." He paused, then added, "The Li family is also involved in this."
Jiang Ruan raised a brow. Zhao Yi chimed in, "Grandfather can't come out, so Third Uncle and I are going. These men are from the Zhao Family Army, disguised like this to avoid suspicion. Cousin, you should wait here in the residence. We'll definitely bring Xin Zhi back."
Jiang Ruan shook her head. "I'm coming with you."
Before Zhao Yi could respond, Zhao Yuanfeng refused outright. "No, it's too dangerous. Stay here."
"Third Uncle, if I don't go, I'll never be at peace. Time is of the essence—don't waste it arguing. I can protect myself. If things are truly so dire that even I can't survive, then the situation must be even worse. Dying alongside my brother would be a blessing." Her tone was calm, almost indifferent to life and death, making Zhao Yuanfeng's heart sink. Seeing her resolute expression, he recalled Zhao Guang's words about Jiang Ruan from the day before and steeled himself. "Fine. But you must be careful. Blades and arrows have no eyes. If anything happens to you, how could I face your late mother?"
Jiang Ruan gave a slight nod. Zhao Yi hesitated but eventually led over a horse from the back and asked, "Cousin, can you ride?"Before he could finish speaking, Jiang Ruan stepped onto the stirrup and flipped gracefully onto the horse's back, then swiftly took the bamboo hat and placed it on her head. Her crisp movements drew admiring glances from the surrounding guards. In her past life, a Western beauty skilled in horsemanship had arrived at the palace, her riding so spectacular that it sparked a craze for horseback riding among the imperial harem. Unfortunately, Jiang Ruan had never been taught horsemanship as a child. In the end, it was Ye Li who personally instructed her. Though she never became exceptionally outstanding, she practiced day and night to impress him, eventually becoming one of the best. Now, reborn into this life, she hadn’t expected her first display of riding skills would be to rescue Jiang Xin Zhi.
Zisu and Lianqiao couldn’t ride and had to stay behind at the General's Residence. Worried, they urged Jiang Ruan, "Miss, be careful on the road."
With no time to spare, Zhao Yuanfeng cracked his whip. "Let’s go!"
The group spurred their horses and galloped toward the city gates, hooves splashing through puddles, the crisp sound of water echoing in their wake.
Initially, Zhao Yi and Zhao Yuanfeng were concerned about Jiang Ruan, fearing the rough ride might be too much for a delicate young lady. But she showed no signs of discomfort, so they relaxed and urged their horses to go even faster.
Meanwhile, Mo Cong and Guan Lianghan had just descended from the East Wind Pavilion when they spotted Xiao Shao below and greeted him. Just as they were about to speak, a group of riders thundered past. The splashing water drenched Mo Cong, who leaped back in outrage. "Hey! You’ve ruined my clothes!"
Guan Lianghan burst into laughter. "Come on, man, don’t be so fussy—wait, isn’t that Zhao Yuanfeng?"
Xiao Shao paused at his words and followed Guan Lianghan’s gaze. Among the riders, a slender figure stood out starkly amidst the burly men. Though she wore a bamboo hat, the presence of Zhao Yuanfeng and Zhao Yi beside her, combined with recent investigations into the Jiang family’s eldest daughter frequently visiting the General's Residence, made her identity easy to guess.
"What are they up to?" Guan Lianghan mused.
"The men behind him are from the Zhao Family Army," Xiao Shao pointed out. "Disguised as guards."
"Deploying troops privately? Hah, has Zhao’s boy lost his mind?" Guan Lianghan chuckled.
Xiao Shao’s eyes darkened. Suddenly, he turned and strode away. Guan Lianghan hurried after him. "Third Brother, where are you going? I still have something to discuss with you."
Xiao Shao untied his horse’s reins from the post. "Later."
Guan Lianghan studied him. "You’re following Zhao Yuanfeng?"
Xiao Shao didn’t answer, which was confirmation enough. Guan Lianghan laughed heartily. "Interesting. I’d like to see what Zhao’s boy is up to myself. Seventh, fetch my horse." He clapped Xiao Shao on the shoulder. "I’ll go with you."
Mo Cong reluctantly brought Guan Lianghan’s horse over, pouting. "Second Brother, Third Brother, can’t I come too?"
Fearless in all things, Mo Cong had one exception—horses. As a child, he’d been thrown from a horse and spent three months bedridden, swearing off solo riding ever since.
Xiao Shao said flatly, "No."Mo Cong rubbed his nose as Guan Lianghan also said, "You stay put right here." With that, he mounted his horse without another glance at Mo Cong, flicked the reins, and the horse immediately galloped away. Mo Cong was left fuming with a livid expression, yet there was nothing he could do.
The two horses followed the figures ahead in tandem. Guan Lianghan caught up to Xiao Shao's steed, his expression shifting to one of seriousness as he asked, "Third Brother, do you know something?" Xiao Shao usually had no ties with the General's Residence, so he couldn't be chasing after them just to catch up. Something must have happened. As fellow military officers, Guan Lianghan, who was often away from the capital, also wanted to know if the Zhao family was hiding any secrets.
Hearing this, Xiao Shao didn't answer immediately. After a pause, his beautiful eyes narrowed slightly as he replied coldly, "They're heading in the direction of the city gates."
"Yes, so what?" Guan Lianghan asked. Currently, only refugees were entering the capital, not leaving. Compared to the outside, the capital was far better off. Moreover, Zhao Yuanfeng and his nephew were leading the Zhao Family Army disguised as guards—there must be another reason. But what could it be? Though stationed far at the border, Guan Lianghan could still gauge the temperaments of his colleagues in court. Zhao Yuanfeng, the third young master of the Zhao family, was reckless and impulsive by nature, but not one to stir trouble. Besides, the Zhao family upheld strict discipline, both in their household and their army, and wouldn't casually mobilize soldiers for other purposes.
"Where is your army currently stationed?" Xiao Shao asked.
"The main road is destroyed—they should be taking the Wulin Path. I returned via the Wulin Path myself. Calculating the journey, they should be passing through there soon." Guan Lianghan replied, then suddenly realized something and looked at Xiao Shao in surprise. "Third Brother, you don’t mean to say the Zhao family is targeting my troops? The Zhao family has no connection whatsoever with my Guan Family Army. Right now, only you and Seventh Brother know about my return to the capital. The Zhao family wouldn’t be heading to the Wulin Path to welcome me—it’s definitely not about me."
Xiao Shao said, "No, it has nothing to do with you."
"Then what do you mean?" Guan Lianghan grew even more confused by his words.
Xiao Shao tightened his legs around the horse's belly, urging it forward like an arrow. Gazing into the distance, a strange glint flashed in his eyes. "I can't say for sure either."
...
The continuous rain had turned the roads along the way into muddy quagmires, and landslides added unnecessary complications to the journey. A three-day trip now required five. After days of forced marches, the Guan Family Army soldiers were beginning to show signs of fatigue. Ahead lay the Wulin Path. With the main road washed out, the dense forests of the Wulin Path made it easy to lose one's way. The Guan Family Army halted at the entrance to rest briefly.
With Guan Lianghan absent, the entire battalion followed Jiang Xin Zhi's command. A soldier warmly called out to him, "Deputy General, come sit and have something to eat."
Jiang Xin Zhi smiled and shook his head. "No need."The soldier said no more. From a humble cook to a deputy general who commanded his own troops on the battlefield, Jiang Xin Zhi had taken a full six years. The Jiang family valued literary pursuits over martial ones, and he had been raised on the Four Books and Five Classics, never having trained in martial arts. Yet it wasn't until he couldn't even protect his own sister that he realized the truth of the saying "A scholar is of no use." Even after joining the army, he initially faced much disdain. On the battlefield where blades and arrows flew indiscriminately, someone of his caliber was fortunate just to survive. But Jiang Xin Zhi had ultimately risen to his current position.
He patted his horse's head, feeling a trace of apprehension. His decision to join the army had been made in the heat of youthful passion, and once he stepped onto the battlefield, circumstances had kept him from returning to the capital for six years. Looking back now, leaving Jiang Ruan in the Jiang household—a place that devoured people—had not been a wise choice. Over the years, he had occasionally changed his name and secretly sent letters to Jiang Ruan, but never received a reply. The closer he got to the capital, the more his worries grew. After all these years, had Jiang Ruan been living poorly? Had something happened to her? After Zhao Mei's death, Xia Yan had been all sweetness on the surface but bitterness underneath, and Jiang Quan had never favored either of the siblings. Left alone, had Jiang Ruan been bullied by the other Jiang family members? The more he thought about it, the more uneasy he became, a nameless agitation slowly rising in his chest.
Lost in thought, his horse nudged him with its muzzle and pawed the ground restlessly with its front hooves. Jiang Xin Zhi chuckled. "Alright, Black Wind, I'll take you for a drink now."
They had traveled a long way without finding water. The puddles on the ground were tainted with dead animals and mud, unfit for drinking lest they fall ill. The clean water had been reserved for the weaker soldiers and horses, and Black Wind had been thirsty for some time. There was a small stream in the Wulin Forest. Jiang Xin Zhi instructed one of the soldiers beside him, "I'll take Black Wind to fetch some water. Have the men rest here for now. I'll be back soon."
(End of Chapter)
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